The Gist - "Funny You Should Mention" Featuring T.J. Miller
Release Date: April 18, 2025 | Host: Mike Pesca | Guest: T.J. Miller | Produced by: Peach Fish Productions
Introduction
In this compelling episode of The Gist, host Mike Pesca engages in a deep and humorous conversation with comedian and actor T.J. Miller. The discussion traverses a spectrum of topics, from the quirks of city mottos to the profound personal impact of T.J.'s traumatic brain injury (TBI) on his life and career. This episode offers listeners a blend of wit, introspection, and insightful commentary on both societal norms and personal resilience.
City Mottos and Public Perception
[07:30]
Mike and T.J. kick off their conversation by dissecting the implications of city mottos. They juxtapose New York City's aspirational "If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere" with Toledo, Ohio's more self-deprecating "Toledo, you'll do better here."
T.J. Miller:
"Toledo's is Toledo, you'll do better here. Let's think about that for a second." [07:30]
Mike Pesca:
"New York's city motto is the exact opposite of Toledo." [08:36]
Their banter highlights how city slogans reflect the aspirations and self-image of their inhabitants, offering a humorous take on how Toledo positions itself as a haven for those who might not thrive in bigger cities.
Cost of Living and Urban Life in Fort Wayne
[19:00]
The conversation shifts to the economic dynamics of smaller cities, focusing on Fort Wayne, Indiana. T.J. discusses the remarkably low cost of living, citing an example of a three-bedroom house renting for just $485 per month.
T.J. Miller:
"Everyone's answer was the same. They're like, well, you know, cost of living... I went like, what? He was like, yeah, $485." [21:24]
They explore the trade-offs between affordability and limited entertainment options, with T.J. humorously suggesting that the economic ecosystem in Fort Wayne allows residents to live comfortably on minimal income, albeit with fewer cultural amenities.
T.J. Miller's Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience
[26:15]
A significant portion of the episode delves into T.J.'s personal experience with a traumatic brain injury. He shares details about his surgery to remove an arteriovenous malformation in his right frontal lobe, shedding light on the challenges and changes it brought to his life.
T.J. Miller:
"I have a brain injury. Traumatic brain injury." [26:15]
He discusses how the injury affects his ability to feel tired, necessitating unique coping mechanisms to maintain his daily routine and comedic output.
Impact on Comedy and Creativity
[35:00]
T.J. reflects on how his brain injury has influenced his comedic style and creativity. He attributes his rapid-fire delivery and improvisational skills to the neurological changes he experienced post-surgery.
T.J. Miller:
"Everything starts from improvisation, and eventually everything will end with improvisation." [53:11]
Mike Pesca:
"Is that true? I never really looked at it." [49:04]
Their dialogue uncovers the intricate balance between maintaining creative momentum and managing cognitive impairments, highlighting T.J.'s resilience and adaptability in his craft.
Mental Health and Coping Strategies
[47:00]
The hosts explore T.J.'s strategies for managing fatigue and maintaining mental health in the wake of his injury. He discusses working with neuropsychologists and implementing practices like intermittent fasting and controlled use of stimulants to regulate his energy levels.
T.J. Miller:
"I've never really been at, like, a party and been like, I'm tired." [28:08]
Mike Pesca:
"I think that's really helped me in improvisation." [53:11]
This segment underscores the importance of professional guidance and personal discipline in navigating life with invisible disabilities.
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Mike Pesca commends T.J. Miller for his unwavering spirit and ability to produce rich, engaging content despite personal challenges. The conversation serves as a testament to human resilience and the capacity to adapt creatively in the face of adversity.
Notable Quotes
-
T.J. Miller:
"Toledo's is Toledo, you'll do better here." [07:30] -
T.J. Miller:
"I don't ever feel tired." [26:41] -
T.J. Miller:
"Everything starts from improvisation, and eventually everything will end with improvisation." [53:11] -
Mike Pesca:
"Is that true? I never really looked at it." [49:04]
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Gist offers a profound exploration of T.J. Miller's journey with traumatic brain injury and its intersection with his career in comedy. The candid and heartfelt conversation provides listeners with an understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, all while highlighting the enduring power of humor and creativity.